Eriskay Pony Walking Trail: Guided Hill Trail to Meet Scotland’s Native Horse
Join us for a unique opportunity to see the endangered Eriskay Pony, in partnership with Comann Each nan Eilean-The Eriskay Pony Society (CEnE). The Eriskay Pony is Scotland’s native horse and is now classed as Priority by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust as there are so few left in the world today.
Each year, from 1st May to 1st October, Eriskay Ponies roam freely on Ben Scrien, the island’s highest point, as part of regulated summer grazing. See the link below for a short video we made of the ponies on the island going up on to the hill.
Comann Each nan Eilean - Eriskay Ponies on Ben Scrien - Summer 2020
This guided walk offers a special chance to spot the ponies in their natural environment and to learn from a local guide about their heritage/connection to island life and how the people of Eriskay once relied on these hardy ponies for survival.
This hill route offers stunning views across Eriskay and on a clear day views out toward the neighbouring islands and the Inner Hebrides.
At various times throughout the season, some of the ponies are on the township crofts therefore there may be the option of a gentler walk, which may suit those unable to manage the hill route. Please contact us before booking if you would prefer this option, as it depends on the ponies’ location and each owner’s individual circumstances (e.g., breeding, childrens workshop days etc).
Key Information:
- Payment by donation towards the breed and insurance costs.
- Recommended donation: £10 per person.
- Booking is Essential – walks will only go ahead if pre-booked.
- Numbers are limited per walk for safety and quality of experience.
- Meeting Point- Office next to Eriskay Community Hall, 15 minutes before the walk.
- Cars parking is available at St Michael's Church to avoid congestion at the shop and hall.
- Sign up details required on the day of event for insurance purposes.
- Full refund or reschedule if cancelled due to bad weather.
- Bring water and wear suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing
Click the link below to view the Place-names of Eriskay book:
Publication-2019-Gaelic-in-the-Landscape-Place-names-of-Eriskay-A’-Ghàidhlig-air-Aghaidh-na-Tìre-Ainmean-àite-Èirisgeigh_0.pdf
Eriskay: A Poem of Remote Lives (1935): https://youtu.be/RTKiXH4JbCY?si=dx8-inCUfVk2EXBd
We look forward to welcoming you to the island and the Eriskay Pony Walking Trail.
